Journal of Spatial Futures

Journal of Spatial Futures

Blog Article

Abstraction of Colorful Light

Understanding the Perception of Interior Spaces

by Maria Lorena Lehman

Neuroscience

Have you ever wondered what effects optical illusion can have on architecture?

Well, there are some simple and specific things designers can do to alter the perception of interior spaces.

Optical Illusions that Change Your Perception

Things like color, lighting, interior element placement, integrated (horizontal or vertical) lines and even mirrors can have a huge impact on the size, proportion and mood of a space. I came across the article entitled Interior Design Optical Illusions (1) where specifics are explained about how to manipulate color, style, lighting and mirrors into the design of a room to actually change its perceived qualities.

It is interesting that such changes can alter interior spaces subtly or boldly, depending on how you design them into the space.

Controlling How a Room Feels

Over time, occupants often want to change a room to accommodate new functional requirements. It is nice to know that there are ways to do this — “gain” square footage or “perceive” different moods.

With understanding into how the human visual system works, designers can create a great variety of different room feels. You will be able to truly achieve great effects (for both interior and exterior spaces) by combining your knowledge of perception with your knowledge of design.

Reference:

(1) Interior Design Optical Illusions. Womanknows.com. August 5, 2009.

Image Credit: © marie-ll | Flickr

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Join DESIGN FUTURECAST to get special VIP Access to Maria Lorena Lehman's design guide, podcast, and newsletter including news of her latest art and design works, book publications, creative design processes, new inspirations, teaching resources, and upcoming exhibitions.


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Advisory

Unlock world-class creative insight, strategy, and refinement through Advisory Toolkits that help architects, designers, and artists elevate their work into iconic, future-shaping legacies.
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Advisory

Unlock world-class creative insight, strategy, and refinement through Advisory Toolkits that help architects, designers, and artists elevate their work into iconic, future-shaping legacies.
Rotating Quantum Key
Futuristic Portal Image

Advisory

Unlock world-class creative insight, strategy, and refinement through Advisory Toolkits that help architects, designers, and artists elevate their work into iconic, future-shaping legacies.
Rotating Quantum Key
Futuristic Portal Image